Abstract

Colds are the most common illness in children. The common cold is an acute, minor, self-limiting, viral, upper respiratory tract infection, but patients tend to feel miserable. True influenza is relatively uncommon, compared to the large number of cold and flu-like viral illnesses that occur. Generally, influenza is much more unpleasant than a cold, and patients are more likely to be bedbound and unable to go about their usual activities. Differentiating between colds and flu may be needed to make a decision about whether or not a child requires referral to the doctor.